Alfredo Spaghetti Recipe

This Alfredo spaghetti recipe brings the creamy richness of traditional Alfredo sauce to the beloved pasta favorite. Perfectly paired with spaghetti, this dish offers a comforting, indulgent meal that is simple to prepare but deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this alfredo spaghetti recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Description

Alfredo spaghetti recipe is a classic Italian American dish known for its luxurious, creamy sauce and delicate flavors. The rich Alfredo sauce is made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, creating a velvety texture that coats each strand of pasta. Unlike other pasta dishes that rely heavily on tomato sauces, Alfredo spaghetti recipe highlights the creamy, cheesy goodness that makes it a go to comfort food.

The origins of Alfredo sauce date back to Rome, where it was first created by chef Alfredo di Lelio in the early 20th century. Originally, the sauce was simple, made with just butter, cheese, and pasta water. It was later adapted and popularized in the United States, where cream was added to make the sauce even richer. Today, Alfredo spaghetti recipe has become a favorite in many households, often served as a main dish or paired with grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for added flavor.

This recipe sticks to the basics, allowing the creamy Alfredo sauce to shine through. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The sauce’s richness pairs perfectly with the neutral flavor of spaghetti, allowing the creamy texture to envelop the pasta. The addition of freshly grated Parmesan adds a sharp, salty kick that balances the creaminess of the sauce.

Making Alfredo spaghetti is straightforward and quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and the recipe can be customized with your choice of protein or vegetables. If you want to elevate the dish, consider adding grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or steamed broccoli for added texture and flavor.

This Alfredo spaghetti recipe serves 4 people, making it ideal for a small family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. You can easily double or halve the ingredients depending on your needs. The recipe is also versatile in terms of substitutions—if you’re looking to make a lighter version, you can use half and half instead of heavy cream, or use a combination of butter and olive oil for a lighter sauce. To make it gluten free, simply swap out the regular spaghetti for gluten free pasta.

Ingredients:

12 oz (340g) spaghetti
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water (for adjusting sauce consistency)

Instructions:

Cook the Spaghetti:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens.

Finish the Sauce:

Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the sauce.

Serve:

Divide the Alfredo spaghetti among serving plates. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes:

Make it ProteinPacked: You can add grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms to make this dish a more complete meal.
Customize the Sauce: For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with half and half or milk. You can also use a combination of butter and olive oil for a different flavor profile.
For a Richer Flavor: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best results. Pre grated cheese often lacks the same depth of flavor and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Storage: Alfredo spaghetti is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.